Physical Characteristics

Pressure of the CSF can be measured when opening (starting) and closing (finishing) the collection.

Increased CSF pressure may be seen with a variety of conditions that increase pressure within the brain or skull and/or obstruct the flow of CSF, such as tumors, infection, abnormal accumulation of CSF within the brain (hydrocephalus), or bleeding.

Decreased pressure may be due to dehydration, shock, or leakage of CSF through an opening (another lumbar puncture site or sinus fracture).

The appearance of the sample of CSF is usually compared to a sample of water.

Color of the fluid — normal is clear and colorless. Changes in the color of the CSF are not diagnostic but may point to additional substances in the fluid. Yellow, orange, or pink CSF may indicate the breakdown of blood cells due to bleeding into the CSF or the presence of bilirubin. Green CSF may also sometimes be seen with bilirubin or infection.

Turbidity — Cloudy or turbid CSF may indicate the presence of white or red blood cells, microorganisms, or an increase in protein levels.

Viscosity — Normal CSF will have the same consistency as water. CSF that is "thicker" may be seen in people with certain types of cancers or meningitis.

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This article was last reviewed on August 23, 2015. | This article was last modified on August 24, 2015.

The review date indicates when the article was last reviewed from beginning to end to ensure that it reflects the most current science. A review may not require any modifications to the article, so the two dates may not always agree.

The modified date indicates that one or more changes were made to the article. Such changes may or may not result from a full review of the article, so the two dates may not always agree.